7 Best Primers for Acne-Prone Skin for A Smooth Canvas
If you're like most people, you probably think of foundation as a necessary part of your makeup routine. But did you know that using a primer before applying foundation can actually help to soothe stressed skin? Especially skin that has redness and inflammation.
Primers are a great way to prepare your skin for foundation, because they help to fill in any pores or wrinkles that might be visible. They also help to create a smooth surface for the foundation to glide on, which means that your makeup will look more natural and last longer.
But the benefits of using a primer don't stop there. Primers can also help to control oil production, which is why they are a great choice for people with oily skin. They can also help to conceal blemishes, making them a great choice for people with acne-prone skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, it can be difficult to find a primer that won't make your acne worse or cause a breakout.
What to Avoid in Cosmetics if You Have Acne-Prone Skin
- Fragrances
- Alcohol
- Harsh Chemicals (sulfates, parabens & phthalates)
These ingredients can cause more inflammation and acne breakouts.
What to Look For In Cosmetics if You Have Acne-Prone Skin
- Cosmetics that are "non-comedogenic". (This means that they will not clog your pores and will not worsen your acne.)
- Salicylic Acid (Decrease redness & inflammation)
- Tea Tree Oil (anti-inflammatory & contains antimicrobial properties)
With that being said, we have saved you time and have done the research for the best primers to use for acne-prone skin. Your life just might change once you find the right primer for you! You'll be amazed at the difference it makes!
Keep scrolling to see our list..
Elf Acne Fighting Putty Primer
Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid: 1.8%Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ceresin, Paraffin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Tromethamine, Lauryl PEG-10 Tris(trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Zinc PCA, Kaolin, Silica, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, PhenoxyethanolMay Contain:Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288), Yellow Iron Oxide (CI 77492)
∼Reduces Redness
∼1.8 % Salicylic Acid
∼Calms Irritation
∼Matte Finish
Size:0.74 oz
What We Love
Prevent future breakouts and help control acne with this putty primer. With the key ingredients being 1.8 % Salicylic Acid to help fight acne and is a anti acne treatment. Kaolin Clay to control shine and draw out any imperfections. This primer is specifically formulated for anyone with acne prone skin. It will grip makeup all day and camouflage breakouts.
Tip When Using Product
Apply a thin layer and make sure to let sit for 30 seconds before makeup application.
Cover FX Stress Remedy Primer
Ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Diisocetyl Dodecanedioate, Polydiethylsiloxane, Propanediol, Octyldodecanol, Silica, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin,, Tricontanyl PVP, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Olea Europa (Olive) Fruit Oil, Phytosphingosine, Hypericum Perforatum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Ethyl Linoleate, Ethyl Linolenate, Ethyl Oleate, Tocopherol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Bisabolol, Rosmarinyl Glucoside, Caffeyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Tetrapeptide-21, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lecithin, Lauryl Alcohol, Myristyl, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Acrylic Acid/VP Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate
∼Clean & Vegan
∼Rosacea Safe
∼Neutralizes Redness
∼Clear Finish
Size:1 fl oz
What We Love
The perfect solution for stressed, irritated skin. This clean, vegan primer is specifically designed to neutralize redness and soothe inflammation, while delivering a clear, matte finish. Ideal for those with rosacea or sensitive skin, this primer will help to minimize the appearance of blemishes and create a smooth, even canvas for makeup application.
Tip When Using Product
Apply to clean skin. Use a dime sized amount.
Elf Blemish Control Face Primer
Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 2.0%. Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Stearic Acid, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate (Ve), Xanthan Gum, Silica, Disodium EDTA, Panthenol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.
∼Contains Salicylic Acid, Vitamin E & Tea Tree Oil
∼Controls Breakouts
∼Smooths Skin
∼Lightweight
Size:0.47 oz
What We Love
Makeup will stay on all day while also fighting acne. Containing acne fighting ingredients such as Salicylic Acid & Tea Tree. These ingredients are known for calming skin and preventing further breakouts.
Tip When Using Product
Wait 30 seconds for primer to set before applying makeup.
Honest Beauty Everything Primer Matte
Ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Methylheptyl Isostearate, Silica, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Tribehenin, Behenyl Alcohol, Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Undecane, Stearyl Alcohol, Lauroyl Lysine, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Seed Extract, Tridecane, Xanthan Gum, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phospholipids, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Leaf Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Limonene, Linalool, Geraniol From packaging: Tube: 51% post consumer recycled plastic Carton is made from biodegradable, recyclable, tree-free paper made with upcycled sugarcane.
∼Blurs Imperfections
∼Vegan & Cruelty Free
∼Controls Shine
∼Contains Bamboo Powder
Size:1 fl oz
What We Love
Formulated with Micronized Bamboo Extract to blur imperfections and mattify complexion. We love that this primer is clean and made without any unnecessary ingredients. Works very well for under eyes. This primer is great for anyone who has oily skin type , it will control shine and help with excess oil production.
Tip When Using Product
Use a pearl sized amount.
Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Primer
Ingredients
Aqua / Water / Eau, Polysorbate 80, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, PEG-150 Distearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, PEG-150 Stearate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Panthenol, PVP, PEG-150, Stearic Acid, Quercus Suber Bark Extract, Sodium Phytate.
∼Fragrance & Silicone Free
∼Non-Comedogenic
∼Vegan Formula
∼24 Hour Staying Power
Size:1.0 fl oz
What We Love
Dermablend always goes off on their products. Their products are always allergy and sensitive skin tested, which we appreciate. They are also vegan and tend to not contain unnecessary fragrances. Okay, so this product is sticky.. it contains cork extract and panthenol which is vitamin B5. This helps to grip your makeup and keep it in place. Reviewers said that it absorbs quickly and it made foundation glide right on and stay in place all night! While also hiding skin imperfections and keeping skin hydrated and smooth.
Tip When Using Product
You will only need 1-2 pumps. When applying sweep onto face in an upward motion.
Touch In Soul No Pore Blem Primer
Ingredients
Cyclopentasiloxane, Water, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dipropylene Glycol, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Fragrance (Parfum), Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Soluble Collagen, Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360), Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Triethoxycaprylylsilane
∼Contains Collagen & Green Tea Extracts
∼Shine Control
∼Plant Based Ingredients
∼Silky Feel
Size: 1.01 fl oz
What We Love
If you are looking for a makeup primer that absorbs excess oil and fills pores, but will not cause you to have breakouts.. this primer is for you. Reviewers were amazed how much this primer shrunk pores and reduced redness. Foundation will look smooth and even. after using this.
Tip When Using Product
Only need a thin layer for great results.
Pur 4-in-1 Correcting Primer
Ingredients
Aqua, Ceteareth-6 Olivate, Coconut Alkanes, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Propanediol, Squalane, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Juice, Lactobacillus/Amaranth/Ferment, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Caffeine, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Ceramide AP, Retinol, Lactic Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate, Glycerin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Leaf/Seed Extract, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract, Dipteryx Odorata Seed Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Cucumis Melo Cantalupensis Fruit Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange Peel) Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benozate, Potassium Sorbate.
∼Contains Probiotics & Aloe
∼Vegan & Cruelty Free
∼Reduces Redness
∼Lightweight
Size:1 fl oz
What We Love
The list of what this primer can do is endless. This was a holy grail for a lot of reviewers with sensitive skin and we know why. This product, feels like a serum and acts like a primer that will Improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of redness. Contains Caffeine to reduce the appearance of under eye bags. Improves skin texture, skin tone and minimizes the appearance of pores for a smooth canvas. We love the clean ingredients and the fact this product is vegan!
Tip When Using Product
Use circular motions when applying for a smooth finish.
FAQ
Can makeup primer help acne?
Many people find that using a primer before applying makeup can help to reduce the appearance of acne.
Primers are designed to create a smooth surface for foundation application, and they often contain ingredients that help to control oil and blur blemishes. If you have acne-prone skin, it may be worth trying a primer specifically formulated for oily or breakout-prone skin.
Do primers block pores?
There is no definitive answer to this question because it depends on the primer. Some primers may block pores while others may not.
One way to help determine whether or not a primer is likely to block pores is to check the ingredients list. If the primer contains silicone, then it is likely that it will block pores. Silicone ingredients can form a film on the skin that can prevent sebum from escaping, which can lead to clogged pores and blackheads.
How do I choose a face primer?
It's important to choose a face primer that is right for your skin type. If you have dry skin, you should look for a primer that contains moisturizers. If you have oily skin, you should look for a primer that controls sebum production.
Do you need a face primer before applying makeup?
Yes, you generally need a face primer before applying makeup. A face primer helps to create a smooth surface for makeup to adhere to and helps makeup stay in place all day. Additionally, a face primer can help minimize the appearance of pores and wrinkles.
How We Chose
We've done the research for you and have saved you the time. We have binged on the product reviews on Amazon from people who have already tried them.
When we want to know whether a product is worth buying, we often turn to reviews to get a sense of what other people think. But with so many reviews available, it can be hard to know which ones to trust. When it comes to reviews on Amazon, we take a few different factors into account. First, we look at the overall rating of the product. If it has a high rating, that's a good sign that people have generally been happy with it.
We also pay attention to the number of reviews that have been left. If there are only a handful, it's possible that they're not representative of the broader population. Finally, we read through the individual reviews to get a sense of what people liked and didn't like about the product. By taking all of these factors into account, we can get a better sense of whether a product is worth buying.
*We do research and read countless reviews for the best products to make our list. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
The Best Primer For You
And that's it! Thanks for reading! We hope you found this article helpful.
Whichever primer you choose, we hope it helps you achieve the smooth canvas of your dreams!
Thanks for stopping by and happy shopping!
